The Mission Old Town Scottsdale – The Best Tacos in Scottsdale, Arizona

Discover The Mission Old Town in Scottsdale, Arizona—an upscale Mexican dining experience with authentic flavors, from street tacos to grilled street corn. Explore the best menu items and things to do in the vibrant Old Town area, making it a must-visit for food lovers and explorers alike.

If you’re a fan of authentic Mexican food like me, then you know there’s nothing like fresh salsa and handmade tortillas straight off the griddle. So, when I found myself in Phoenix for a quick getaway, I met up with my friend and fellow foodie, the fabulous TastaAz. As Arizona’s ultimate food diva, she knows where to find the best eats in Scottsdale, so when she suggested lunch at The Mission in Old Town, I was ready!

acos in Scottsdale

A Gourmet Mexican Food Experience

First things first, The Mission isn’t your typical Tex-Mex spot. It’s an upscale take on traditional Mexican cuisine, with a focus on high-quality ingredients and authentic flavors. It’s the kind of place where everything is crafted with care, from the freshly made tortillas to the bold and flavorful salsas. But, heads up—this isn’t the place to grab a cheap bite. Expect to spend around $120-$130 for dinner for two, including appetizers, entrees, drinks, tax, and tip. But trust me, it’s worth every penny.

What to Order at The Mission

I made the rookie mistake of planning another dinner for the same night, thinking I’d just have a quick bite here. Spoiler alert: I was wrong. My friend and I practically ordered the entire left side of the menu (okay, maybe not everything—but close enough!). And let me tell you, there are no regrets. Here’s what you absolutely need to try:

• Chips & Salsa: You can’t start a Mexican feast without it. The salsa is fresh, vibrant, and the perfect start to your meal.
• Cheese Plate: A beautiful selection featuring Chilean honey, Zoe's Fantasma & tequila salumi, grilled pan de yucca, serrano fried peanuts, and chimichurri. It’s a perfect balance of sweet and savory.
• Grilled Street Corn (Elotes): An absolute must! This skewered corn is smothered in butter, chila paprika, aji rocoto, cilantro, and cotija cheese. It’s smoky, tangy, and incredibly delicious.
• Tecate Skirt Steak Tacos: These are the street tacos of your dreams—tender skirt steak with morita salsa, avocado, lime, cilantro, and cotija cheese. Each bite is packed with flavor, and the steak is cooked to perfection.

By the time we were done, I was waddling out the door, wishing I had worn yoga pants instead of jeans. Safe to say, I didn’t make my dinner reservation later that night, but honestly, I didn’t care. The Mission was worth it!

Explore Old Town Scottsdale

After indulging in all the deliciousness at The Mission, don’t forget to explore the charm of Old Town Scottsdale. Known for its vibrant art galleries, unique shops, and lively atmosphere, it’s the perfect area to walk off your meal. Here are a few things to do in the area:

• Stroll the ArtWalk: Old Town is famous for its art galleries and weekly ArtWalk event. Even if you’re not an art connoisseur, it’s fun to browse the galleries and check out the local artists.
• Shop at Boutiques: From artisan jewelry shops to chic clothing boutiques, there’s something for every shopper here.
• Visit the Scottsdale Historical Museum: Dive into the history of Scottsdale with a visit to this quaint museum that gives you a glimpse into the area’s past.
• Explore the Civic Center Park: If you need a quiet spot to relax after a big meal, the Civic Center Park is a great place to unwind and enjoy the beautiful Arizona weather.

If you find yourself in the Scottsdale/Phoenix area and you’re craving the best Mexican food experience of your life, The Mission Old Town should be at the top of your list. Whether you’re stopping by for lunch or planning a full dinner, you’ll leave full, happy, and already planning your next visit.

Want to stay updated with what’s happening at The Mission? Follow them on social media and make sure to tag your food adventures! And don’t forget to follow me @courtneyblacher for more food and travel inspo—let’s explore Scottsdale’s culinary scene together!